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The plant of the day
Echium fastuosum (the Boraginaceae familly)
pride of Madeira

Description

General aspect and origins - Echium fastuosum, syn. Echium candicans, is also known as pride of Madeira, this plant being native to Madeira. It is an evergreen perennial plant that can reach up to 5 - 8 ft (1.50 m - 2.40 m) tall, with spikes of tiny purple-blue flowers appearing in spring.
Leaves - This Echium has evergreen lanceolate leaves, that are about 8 in (20 cm) long.
Flowers - Dense 2 ft (60 cm) long spikes of tiny purple-blue flowers appear in spring.

Culture

Echium fastuosum is a showy and perennial plant, that can withstand negative temperatures down to 26°F to 24°F (-3°C to -5°C). It thus can be grown in USDA zones 9 and warmer. Also, this plant can be grown in coastal and windy conditions. Note that leaves and stems may prove slightly skin irritant. So handle with care.
Soil - This Echium requires a well-drained ground.

Propagation

This Echium is easily propagated by seeds.

Pictures of Echium fastuosum

photo #1 of Echium fastuosum photo #2 of Echium fastuosum photo #3 of Echium fastuosum photo #4 of Echium fastuosum photo #5 of Echium fastuosum photo #6 of Echium fastuosum

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